Double Arrow Lookout

About this site

Overview The Double Arrow Lookout offers guests a chance to see the Seeley valley and the adjacent Swan Mountains from a different and unique vantage point, high above the hillside. The tower contains a few modern amenities, including electricity, but allows guests to personalize their visits with their own supplies. A variety of recreational opportunities exist in the surrounding mountains, but the view is usually what attracts people to the tower. Recreation Visitors enjoy hunting and hiking. There are a variety of trails that lead from the lookout into the surrounding mountains and valleys. Seeley Lake is located about 2 miles east of Double Arrow and is open to fishing, boating and other water-related recreation. It has a boat ramp, as well as a sandy beach with ample shade for visitors who just want to relax and enjoy the alpine setting. Facilities Visitors enjoy hunting and hiking. There are a variety of trails that lead from the lookout into the surrounding mountains and valleys. Seeley Lake is located about 2 miles east of Double Arrow and is open to fishing, boating and other water-related recreation. It has a boat ramp, as well as a sandy beach with ample shade for visitors who just want to relax and enjoy the alpine setting. Natural Features The lookout is a 14-by-14 structure atop a 20 foot tower. It was built in 1933 and staffed by Forest Service employees until the mid-'80s, when it was opened to the public for recreation purposes. The tower is now listed on the National Historic Lookout Register. The forest contains a wide variety of trees, plants and wildlife, and is home to mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, deer and grizzly and black bears (learn about bear safety). Both the bald and golden eagle reside in the forest, along with trumpeter swan, herons and dozens of varieties of ducks. Nearby Attractions The lookout is a short distance from the Clearwater River Canoe Trail, which offers a prime location to witness the area's spectacular birding, wildlife viewing and scenic views. The 3.5-mile trail can be completed in a couple hours and is done entirely on the water. Additional Info: The facility includes electric lights, heat, a cook stove, and a small refrigerator. Two single sleeping platforms and two portable cots accommodate up to four guests. An outdoor vault toilet is located a short distance from the tower. Guests must bring all bedding, cooking equipment, cleaning supplies, food, and water, as no water is available on-site. The steep dirt and gravel access road requires high-clearance vehicles. The lookout was renovated in 2021-2022 and is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register. Cell phone service is available in the area.

Amenities & access

Maximum vehicle length

20 feet

Contact

• 406-677-2233
• https://www.fs.usda.gov/r01/lolo/recreation/double-arrow-lookout

Location

47.164722, -113.531111